Bali is a beautiful island that has many striking destinations. It has various historical, cultural and archeological sites that make it unique and interesting. The enormous availability of accommodation centers, entertainment spots and ready transport makes it easy for everyone to spend time there.
The natural glamor of this Indonesian island is something that you should not miss seeing. Its tranquil atmosphere is what you need for a nice and complete relaxation. If you plan on traveling to Bali, you may want to consider finding a place to stay for the time being. There are lots of accommodation options such as hotels, apartments, or you can even find several affordable and luxurious Bali villa rental options that are well worth looking into. Regardless of your choice of stay, the following is a list of the top sights and activities in Bali. It contains the best destinations and activities that you can do to completely enjoy your trip to Bali. You can use it as a guide when travelling to the island.
- Pura Tanah Lot
Pura Tanah Lot is one of the most important landmarks in Bali. It is a must visit site for all visitors. Pura Tanah Lot, or simply Tanah Lot, is an ocean temple that rests on top of a huge rock. The rock stands amidst constant tides and people have to wait for the low waves for them to access it.
The temple is a magnificent religious sight that the locals believe was used by an ancient Hindu high priest for protection. Most tourists visit it in the evening to view and picture the beautiful oceanic sunset that appears from this point. Vendors selling food, drinks, souvenirs and many other things are always available.
- Uluwatu Temple
Uluwatu Temple, also known as Pura Luhur Uluwatu, is a nice cultural and religious site that rests on top of tall cliffs. The site is normally filled with loud bangs made by the strong ocean waves. A beautiful pathway leading from the entrance to the temple gives you a broad view of the Indian Ocean.
As the sun sets over the ocean, it creates a beautiful image that can best be viewed from the temple. While waiting for this magical effect, you can watch the playful monkeys that keep roaming around the temple. You can also watch the cultural dance performances that take place at the place.
- Ubud Monkey Forest
Ubud Monkey Forest is a breathtaking destination that is located near Ubud town center. It is a nice place that is full of sweet and fresh air. The natural sanctuary has paved pathways that go through giant trees and thick vegetation.
While hiking through the forest, you can be able to see monkeys roaming freely and playfully in the dense jungle. Ancient temples and statues are among the many cultural constructions that exist in this forest. A camera is important because the forest has many places that can serve well as the background of your photos.
- Kuta Beach
Kuta is a famous beach that is best known for providing the best entertainment to all fun lovers. It is a sandy beach that receives daily visitors in large numbers. The beach has stores, restaurants, bars, spas and many other entertainment facilities.
Kuta Beach is a nice playground for anyone who loves sunbathing, kite-flying, surfing or swimming. Trinkets and souvenirs can easily be bought from the available on-sight vendors. Various night parties are normally held and provide a nice opportunity for people to drink, dance and socialize.
- Mount Batur, Kintamani
Mount Batur is an active volcanic mountain that is located in Kintamani. Daily hiking trips to the top of this volcano are normally made before sun rise. Nicely marked pathways are available and it usually takes two to three hours for people to reach to the top.
The top of Mount Batur gives a spectacular view of the underlying land and lake as the sun rises. A guided tour gives you an opportunity to enjoy an outdoor breakfast. The eggs served are normally cooked using the volcano’s steam.
- Waterbom Bali
This is the place that should not be missed if you want your whole family to enjoy in a stylish manner. Waterbom Bali is an amazing water park that is located in a cool and serene environment. It is filled with shady trees and appealing tropical gardens.
Among the things you can find at Waterbom Bali include swimming pools, water slides, rides and beauty spas. The place also has cafes and restaurants that can provide you with meals and drinks.
- Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
The beauty of natural landscapes can best be enjoyed here. Jatiluwih Rice Terraces are located at the hillsides of Batukaru Mountain. The large rice fields are covered with rice terraces to prevent erosion. The terraces are laid out in a unique pattern that is completely overwhelming.
Jatiluwih Rice Terraces covers more than 600 hectares of land and are irrigated using subak irrigation system. The area has several restaurants that provide a clear view of the iconic landscapes. You can visit one of them or park along the road and enjoy the view.
- Pura Ulun Danu Bratan
Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is a very unique temple complex that rests at Lake Bratan’s western shore. It is made up of several thatch temples that gives it a fascinating look. Lake Bratan is among the main sources of water in Bali and the temple complex is dedicated to the Buddhist goddess of seas and lakes.
Watching from the shore gives you a spectacular view of the temple complex together with its reflection from the lake. Visitors can take canoes and get a closer view of the temple complex and the surrounding environment.
- Ubud Art Market
If you want to see and enjoy Balinese art and culture, then this is the place for you. Ubud Art Market is made up of traditional buildings and tropical gardens that serves as shops for the vendors. There are many Balinese collections that are displayed and sold at the market.
Among the things you can find at the market include sculptures, carvings, paintings, jewelry, shirts, hats, baskets and home wares. Puri Saren Royal Ubud Palace is located opposite the market and entertains people with traditional dance performances.
- Tirta Empul Temple
This is an ancient temple that is believed to have been built at around 960 AD. It is an active temple that contains several shrines. Tirta Empul Temple has three courtyards surrounding a rectangular pool. The pool receives water from a sacred mountain spring.
The rectangular pool contains healing water and the locals soak themselves in it for cleansing. Visitors can join the locals in the ritual but should learn the customs first.